grown up hamburger helper

I stole it from Shelly. I am a fan of Hamburger Helper, since it was one of the first things I learned how to cook, so I had to try this. I made it for lunch yesterday and it was inhaled by both parties. It will be a regular in our kitchen from now on. Thanks, Shelly!

Grown Up Hamburger Helper
Serves 3 (or 2.5, if you're hungry)

Ingredients
2 cups pasta (I used orecchiette)
1/2 pound ground beef
2 big tablespoons of grated onion
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup chicken stock
1 cup of half and half
1/2 tablespoon dijon mustard
1 1/4 cup shredded colby jack cheese

Garnish (optional)
chopped dill pickles
diced tomatoes or salsa


Instructions
Boil a pot of water and add the pasta, cook per the box. Don't drain until the rest is ready.

In a large skillet brown the meat. Add the onion and Worcestershire then some salt and pepper. When fully cooked, remove to a paper plate and get rid of the grease.

In the same skillet, over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute. Whisk in the half and half and the chicken stock. Bring to a bubble and cook for a few minutes until it thickens up. Stir in the dijon. Add the cheese and keep stirring until all melted into gooey goodness. More salt and pepper.

Drain the pasta and add to the sauce skillet along with the meat. Serve with the dill pickles and tomatoes/salsa if you wish.